The shots show off a device not dissimilar to the existing Z1 Compact, although its curvier edges and rounder port flaps betray its true identity.

The current Z1 Compact is the undisputed mini smartphone King thanks to Sony's no-compromise approach, which saw it arrive with beastly quad-core Snapdragon 800 innards, 2GB of RAM, and a 20.7MP camera.

All of that is crammed behind a 720p 4.3in screen, which small-handed gadgeteers can use without fear of losing their grip and smashing it on unforgiving concrete.

The Z3 Compact is rumoured to land with even more impressive specs, which include a larger 4.6in full HD screen, quad-core Snapdragon 801 innards, 3GB of RAM, and the same 20.7MP camera.

We could very well see Sony announce the Z3 Compact (skipping past the Z2 moniker altogether ) at IFA in September, alongside the flagship Sony Xperia Z3.

That's all the info we have for the time being, but we'll be bringing you all the news from the show floor in Berlin next month, so stay tuned.